Almighty God, who after the creation of the world rested from all your works and sanctified a day of rest for all your creatures: Grant that we, putting away all earthly anxieties, may be duly prepared for the service of your sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to your people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A Collect for Saturdays from Morning Prayer in the Book of Common Prayer, p. 99

I have always liked this prayer on Saturday morning. May our rest here be blessed indeed. May our rested selves truly be renewed in giving thanks for the hope of new life in Jesus Christ ~Fr. Dan

–Edwina Gateley in Lyn Klug, Lyn King, All Will Be Well: A Gathering of Healing Prayers (p. 142). Kindle Edition.

Friday in the week is remembered in prayer as the day of the week that Jesus was crucified. Even in the Season of Easter the Church remembers that there would be no resurrection without crucifixion and death. We remember those who are now suffering in any way, in body, mind, or spirit. We remember that God is ever-present—especially in moments of pain and distress. We remember with the hope and expectation of resurrection joy. ~Fr. Dan

Compassionate God, support and strengthen all those who reach out in love, concern, and prayer for the sick and distressed. In their acts of compassion, may they know that they are your instruments. In their concerns and fears may they know your peace. In their prayer may they know your steadfast love. May they not grow weary or faint-hearted, for your mercy’s sake. Amen.

From Enriching Our Worship 2 (p.93) approved for use in the Episcopal Church in 2000

While many ask about the person who is ill or struggling, it is my experience that those who are providing care usually are equally in need of our prayers day-in and day-out. ~Fr. Dan

“Verse and Voice” is a daily resource for prayer and meditation provided by the folks of Sojourners. It is available as a daily email. More information here. I especially like that this prayer petitions God to open our hearts to receive care and kindness in return. I have found that those to whom I minister give so much to me in return if i am open to their gifts. ~Fr. Dan

Thank you, God, for giving me your counsel today. Tonight, as I sleep, may the dreams of my heart also serve to instruct me in your ways. In you I have a good heritage, and my heart, my soul, and my body rest in you. Amen.

The Feasting on the Word Worship Companion offers worship and prayer suggestions for each of the Sunday’s of the Church Year based on the Revised Common Lectionary calendar. Each week a “Household Prayer” for use in the Morning and another in the Evening is presented. Yesterday (4/24/17) we posted the Morning Prayer for the Second Week of Easter, today (4/25/17) we post the Evening “Household Prayer” for the Second Week of Easter. ~Fr. Dan

Holy One, you have made known to me the ways of life and have promised to fill me with the gladness of your presence. Keep me mindful of your guidance and your promise as I travel through this day, that my heart may be glad. Amen.

The Feasting on the Word Worship Companion offers worship and prayer suggestions for each of the Sunday’s of the Church Year based on the Revised Common Lectionary calendar. Each week a “Household Prayer” for use in the Morning and another in the Evening is presented. This is the Household Prayer: Morning for the Second Week of Easter. ~Fr. Dan